Nissan's Smiling Car Concept Turns Road Rage to Highway Happiness

Source:InventorSpot

Author:Steve Levenstein

Date: January 9th, 2010

Grinning grills may be about to make a comeback, and I don't mean those mile-wide chrome smiles formerly plastered across the snouts of Detroit's finned fifties freeway flyers. Nope, you won't find much chrome on Nissan's "Smiling Vehicle" concept but you WILL find much to smile about... in fact, you'll be smiling back.

The Nissan Motor Design Center and Hara Design Institute are displaying the prototype vehicle - actually a shrunken Nissan Cube - at the Tokyo Fiber '09 Senseware show. The car's body panels are covered in a soft & stretchy polyurethane elastomer fiber made by Asahi Kasei called ROICA. Not only does this allow the car to have flexible outer skin
(ideal for absorbing parking lot dings), it allows for the installation of animatronic hardware
hidden beneath the panels that can distort areas of the body by 500% to 900%. Even more importantly, the skin has "memory" and can snap right back to its original configuration. Check out this short video of the Smiling Car in action at the Senseware show:

Follow this link to watch a Youtube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYa2UZnn8j8

NDC and HDI are touting a number of applications
for ROICA that go beyond automotive use, including clothing (outerwear, innerwear and sportswear) and shoes, but by adding a mechanical smile to the Nissan's face they instantly create an empathetic bond with human onlookers. Smile at somebody and they'll usually smile back, and vice versa - try it! Now how would you feel if a car driving in your direction should suddenly flash a grin? According to Diginfo-TV's report, "Sounding a horn has negatives connotations, but if cars could smile a new method of communication while driving could evolve. This work considers the car as an extension of the driver’s character, and suggests that it might give rise to emotional exchanges." (via Technabob and Diginfo-TV)

Nissan rumored to be reviving 240SX, bringing it to the U.S.

Source: AutoBlog
Author: Damon Lavrinc

Nissan's plans to revive the 240SX (Silvia in JDM parlance) has almost become a running joke, right up there with the fake moon landing and Tom Cruise's heterosexuality. But still, this old chestnut carries forth, with a new report from Insideline's editor in Japan who says the coupe's revival is due to hit the market sometime in 2011 or 2012.

Details, per usual, are both scarce and obvious. The next-generation Silvia will supposedly be built atop Nissan's popular FM platform (370Z, Infiniti G, etc.), come in a 2+2 seating configuration and tip the scales around 2,800 pounds. Naturally, as the S15's successor, it will be a front-engine, rear-drive setup, and is rumored to be packing a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four putting out around 200 horsepower. A naturally aspirated variant will also be available to keep the cost of entry low, but the turbo'd model is obviously the pick of the litter and should deliver a 0-60 time of between six and seven seconds.

IL's man in Japan points to the Nissan Foria concept (shown above) as the stylistic inspiration, but notes that the coupe would only be "loosely based" on the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show concept. Judging by Nissan's recent design endeavors, we doubt the Foria -- or as previously rumored, the Urge concept -- will be a heavy influence on this supposed Silvia revival.

Although we're all for more budget-oriented FR sports cars, the popularity of the Toyota FT-86 is sure to be a factor in Nissan's decision to bring the 240SX back to life. That, coupled with the unknown demand for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe (Hyundai doesn't break out Genesis Sedan from Coupe sales in its monthly reports) makes the proposition of a new 2+2 from Nissan even more hazy. So until we hear something solid from Ghosn and Company, we'll resume our normal respiration routine.

Source: Written by Christopher DeMorro
Published on December 14th, 2009
Posted in Cars, Hybrid-electric EVs

In many circles, the Nissan GT-R is referred to as simply “Godzilla”, and with good reason. Cranking out 480 horsepower out of a twin-turbo V6, Nissan’s halo car is a track monster and a winner of many hearts and minds. But can it ever be green?

Maybe. Rumor has it that Nissan is considering a hybrid version of the GT-R that will provide better fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Say what?

This is just an unsubstantiated rumor for now… but hey, why not? Ferrari is doing it, and so is Rolls Royce. Why not a hybrid Godzilla? Supposedly, the plan is to drop the twin-turbo V6 engines horsepower by 40 ponies to 440, and then adding a 160 horsepower electric engine. This would bring total output to 600 horsepower, though the weight of an extra engine and battery will negate some of that horsepower.

The GT-R is the successor to Nissan’s popular Skyline model, and only just hit the markets last year, so don’t expect a hybrid Godzilla too soon. The rumor might also be untrue, because most people who buy a GT-R aren’t trying to save the world… they’re trying to go fast. Still, the GT-R does deliver respectable gas mileage for a 480 horsepower car with a top speed of 193 MPH.
The GT-R gets about 21 MPG on the highway and 16 in the city for a combined average of around 18 MPH. Not bad, but how much better could an electric engine make it? How much better would it have to be to make the premium price worth it? At $80,000 it already costs a pretty penny… but compared to other super cars, it’s already a bargain. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens

2011 Nissan LEAF: Smartphone Integration, Coming At Launch

Source: Global Post

Just a few weeks ago, we reported that smartphone vehicle control isn't as far away as you might think. Five to seven years ago, more than a quarter of all new vehicles are anticipated to have some remote capabilities.

Now it's looking like Nissan might be one of the first automakers to offer it in the U.S.--albeit on a very limited basis at first.

Next fall, as Nissan starts delivering its new LEAF electric vehicle--which TheCarConnection.com just drove, briefly, in prototype form--in a trial run in a few select markets, to about 5,000 customers in all, the automaker plans to have smartphone integration ready to roll as well.

"You'll be able to track your vehicle's charging activities, and the times that it charges," said Mark Perry, Nissan North America's director for product planning and advanced technology, at a presentation in Seattle. "Your car will basically communicate with your cellphone and say, 'What's my state of charge?'"

Perry said that the mobile integration with iPhone or other smartphone will allow you to receive an update or reminder, as you're shopping for instance, when your car's charge is completed; it will also allow more complex functions like remote preheating or precooling of your car while you're still plugged in.

"All those capabilities will be there at launch," Perry confirmed.

Christmas Buy One, Get One FREE Sale!

Our Black Friday Blowout Sale was so successful, we've decided to extend it.... UNTIL CHRISTMAS! This is the real deal! No gimmicks! Purchase one of the new vehicles listed below and pick out your FREE CAR! These free cars are not junkers, they are fully inspected and ready for the road! Some are valued at OVER $10,000!

Hurry and pick yours while supplies last!

Here's the list:

Buy a 2010 or 2008 Titan and pick:
2002 Chevy Blazer
2005 Pontiac Grand Am
2003 Ford Escape
2007 Saturn Ion
2004 Chrysler 300M
2002 Buick Century
2002 Honda Civic
2003 Chevy Impala

Buy a 2009 Quest and pick:
1996 Chevy Pickup
2002 Buick Century
2000 Mazda 626


Buy a 2009 Sentra and get:
1996 Chevy Pickup


Buy a 2009 Altima and get:
1996 Chevy Pickup


Buy a 2009 Maxima and pick:
1996 Chevy Pickup
2000 Mazda 626
2002 Buick Century


Buy a 2010 Pathfinder and pick:
1996 Chevy Pickup
2000 Mazda 626
2002 Buick Century


Buy a 2009 Frontier and pick:
1996 Chevy Pickup
2000 Mazda 626
2002 Buick Century

*Customer pays tax, title and license on free vehicle. See dealer for details

Suspension Adjustments?

Here's a little clip courtesy of STILLEN. If this is really the way they adjust suspensions, I'd like to start my new job with them tomorrow! Enjoy:

New 2010 Rogue Krom

We are so stoked!

Nissan has created a brand new Krom package for the 2010 Nissan Rogue! The Krom package looks awesome on the Cube and now we've got a sweet-looking Rogue coming too. We love the subtle GT-R inspired cues in the new front fascia. If you're interested in more info on one of these, contact us today!

(Photos courtesy of http://www.nissanusa.com/)

The following is a press release from Nissan regarding the new 2010 Nissan Rogue Krom edition:
Nissan Adds New Rogue Krōm Edition, Featuring Sporty
Styling, Exclusive 17-Inch Wheels, Sport-Tuned Exhaust


FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Oct. 23, 2009) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today
announced the latest addition to its Krōm specialty vehicles lineup, the 2010 Nissan
Rogue Krōm edition, which is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in
December 2009. The new Rogue Krōm edition is designed to offer a unique
dimension to traditional compact sport utility vehicles with its aggressive sport
styling, exclusive 17-inch wheels and a center-exit sport-tuned exhaust. Nissan also
offers a Krōm edition of the popular Nissan cube®.

The limited production Rogue Krōm edition is available in both front-wheel and allwheel
drive configurations and in just three exterior colors – Venom Red, Wicked
Black and Gotham Gray.

Built on the solid foundation of the Rogue S, the Krōm edition adds 17-inch brilliant
finish aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/60R Continental Conti 4x4 Contact tires and
a unique grille embedded in the aggressive front fascia with integrated fog lights. In
the rear, the Rogue Krōm edition includes a boldly styled sport fascia with integrated
center-exit exhaust, a body-colored rear spoiler and rear privacy glass. Bodycolored
power outside mirrors, a Krōm emblem and steering wheel-mounted audio
controls complete the Krōm equipment modifications.

“The new Krōm edition expands Rogue’s already strong appeal, bringing its
unmistakable sporty and active design to buyers seeking to stand out from the crowd
of ordinary compact SUVs,” said Pat Steiner, director, Specialty Vehicles Group, NNA.
“Just as our NISMO models add enhanced performance straight from the factory, the
Krōm lineup offers intriguing, customized design right off the showroom floor.”
Based at NNA headquarters in Franklin, Tenn., the Specialty Vehicles Group was
formed in August 2006 to develop niche derivatives of Nissan vehicles.

“Krōm adds a level of style and appearance, along with a sense of intrigue,
excitement and self-expression. The Krōm name suggests ‘cars with attitude,’ rather
than a literal interpretation of chrome wheels or trim,” added Steiner. “We leverage
our speed and flexibility in bringing exciting new products to market – faster and for
less than ‘mainstream’ models.”

About the 2010 Nissan Rogue
The 2010 Nissan Rogue crossover SUV continues to satisfy both the functional needs
of the buyers and their emotional needs – including the versatility provided by a
large 58 cubic feet of cargo space. For 2010, Rogue is available in three offerings,
Rogue S, Rogue SL and the intriguing Rogue Krōm edition – each equipped with a
standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan’s advanced Xtronic
CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel
disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and available with an intuitive All-
Wheel Drive system. Rogue SL and Rogue Krōm include 17-inch aluminum-alloy
wheels. Chrome door handles are now standard on all Rogue models.

Rogue’s interior includes a driver-oriented cockpit with available leather-appointed
seating surfaces, heated seats and 6-way power driver’s seat. Versatility is
enhanced by numerous convenient storage and ultra-functionality features, including
an oversized glove compartment, a large center console and an innovative available
rear cargo organizer. Available technology features include Nissan Intelligent Key™,
Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription
required, sold separately) and a powerful Bose®–developed audio system with Nd®
Richbass® woofer and MP3 playback.

Rogue also offers a long list of standard safety features, including front seat-exit side
impact supplemental air bags and roof-exit curtain side impact supplemental air bags
with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

For 2010, Rogue S models are available with a new 360° Value Package, which
includes unique 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview
mirror rearview monitor, auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rear spoiler and chrome
grille.

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering,
consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and
manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan
Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other
emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America
and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at
www.NissanUSA.com and www.infinitiusa.com.

Free website - Wix.com

40th Anniversary 370Z Is Coming!

The following letter was sent from Nissan to all U.S. Nissan dealers: (click here for larger wallpaper version)

Forty years ago this month, the Z car made its introduction to the North American market. Delivering world-class performance, the original Datsun 240Z was stylish and affordable – with a purchase price of just $3,626. The Z has changed throughout the years, and through its six generations it has solidified itself as an iconic sports car. And its value formula, strengthened by its unmatched performance, style and segment leadership, remains stronger than ever.

To honor the original 240Z and commemorate the outstanding heritage of the Z, Nissan is proud to announce the introduction of a 40th Anniversary Z. Available in spring of 2010, the 40th Z will be a limited edition model of 1,000 units. The objectives of celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Z with this special edition are to:

• reinforce Nissan’s historical commitment to performance, design and value

• appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate the strong heritage of the Z

• create demand and “pride of ownership” through a unique spec offering

The 40th Anniversary model will be a single spec model based on the Touring 6M/T trim with Sport Package, and it will include the following unique features:

• exterior: premium and unique exterior color (40th Graphite), premium smoke wheel finish, red brake calipers and 40th badging on the rear deck lid

• interior: red leather seats with 40th logo embossed, red door panel inserts, red stitching on console, smooth leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, premium quality floor mats embroidered with the 40th logo and 40th Anniversary plaques located on the interior of the vehicle and on the strut tower brace in the engine compartment

• customer amenities: special fitted car cover with 40th Anniversary embroidery, congratulatory letter from NNA executive and professional portfolio to display a certificate of ownership

40th Anniversary edition pricing will be announced at a time closer to start of sales. Allocation of the 40th will be based strictly on twelve month Z coupe and roadster sales ending October ‘09; dealers should begin to see their allocation volumes in November ’09. The anniversary models will be built in January ’10 and should be available for retail sale in the spring of 2010.

Here’s to the 40th,

Rich Latek

Director, CMM

Announcing: THE NISSAN TENT EVENT!

It's that time again! Nissan is rolling out the National Tent Event in a big way. The deals are absolutely incredible! So what's the best deal in the house, you ask? In my opinion it's this:

$3500 off ANY new Nissan Altima!

(Includes all applicable rebates)

If the Altima isn't for you, then you can still get:

$500 ADDITIONAL REBATE on ANY new Nissan!

This is above and beyond any other normal Nissan rebates or interest rates! This extra money can also be combined with special leases! AMAZING! Hurry in, this offer won't last long. The extra money goes away on 10/18/09.

2010 Altima Coupe Pictures!

Nissan has officially realeased pics of the 2010 Altima Coupe. Here they are for your veiwing pleasure :) Enjoy.

BONUS PICTURES!!!

Found a few more 2010 sedan pics and figured we'd throw them in for fun!

$1,000 More for Your Trade!!

08 Dodge Viper For Sale!

2010 Nissan Altima Picture

Just found the FIRST full-body pic of the 2010 Altima! Let us know what you think!

2010 Nissan Altima

Just got the teaser pic for the 2010 Altima redesign from Nissan. Looks like it's gonna be sweet!